Welcome TO 2019! It is the beginning of a new year and the start of new goals. Let’s take a minute to reflect upon the previous year. Did you accomplish what you wanted to accomplish? Was it a great year? Did you step outside your comfort zone? Did you live and love more?

Moving into the new year, I encourage you to start every day with a grateful heart and to step out in faith, believe in yourself, and live life boldly and courageously. You can achieve any goal and anything you set your mind to. Embrace change and embrace that every day is a fresh start.

A common goal most people have at this time of the year is getting in shape. I would love to share with you a few tips that have helped me and my fitness journey.

Blaine’s 5 Fitness Tips:

Balance and discipline
Balance exercising into your lifestyle. Find an appropriate time of the day that works best with you and your schedule and dedicate that time to working out. It can be in the morning, evening or even during a lunch break. Set time aside and make it a priority. If you want change in your life you are going to have to do something you’ve never done and you will have to practice discipline. You will have to make certain sacrifices, but it will be worth it.

Goal setting and planning
Set goals that are attainable. Set a reachable goal for you and make weekly goals along with monthly goals. Get a calendar to plan out the days you work out. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail. I would encourage exercising at least three times a week. This is a healthy amount of exercise for the average person.

Workout
Find fitness routines and workouts that you enjoy. Whether it’s walking 30 minutes a day, swimming, or joining a group fitness class – there are many options that aren’t strenuous and are enjoyable to do. I personally love Pilates, Yoga, dancing, and walking.

Attitude
It’s all about positivity, perception and how you look at your journey. Don’t think of working out as a burden or stressful situation. Look at it as a blessing and be thankful you can exercise, some people are less fortunate. Stay positive, and embrace the journey. It takes a strong minded individual to make a change and you will notice yourself becoming stronger daily, physically and mentally the longer you stay committed to your goal.

Accountability partner
Find someone who will push you and better you. Someone who will encourage you and uplift you. It is helpful to have a partner who will exercise with you or at least check in with you to make sure you are sticking to your workout schedule.

I hope these 5 Tips will help you succeed at your fitness goals! Nothing is impossible and always remember to rejoice in your victories, even the small ones! You CAN do it. Happy New Year and have an exceptionally blessed 2019.